The Rochester Red Wings will get another $15,000 for improvements to Dwyer Stadium this year after the City Council approved 5-3 a resolution authorization the expenditure.
Councilman Bill Cox led the opposition, saying that taxpayers should not subsidize private enterprise. He objected specifically to the funds being used for grounds keeping.
"We're being asked to do this with no specific knowledge of any bricks or mortar or steel that needs to be repaired," Cox said.
The money is coming from the city's capital budget and, according to City Attorney George Van Nest, is consistent with previous grant requirements for the city to maintain the stadium.
Previously, the city entered into an agreement with the Red Wings with payments of $10,000 and $15,000 this year, $20,000 next year and $25,000 the following year. Council President Charlie Mallow indicated the resolution was consistent with that agreement.
City Manager Jason Molino made the point that grounds upkeep is appropriate use of Capital Account funding, because "without a field, you don't have a stadium."
The Red Wings are currently operating the Batavia Muckdogs.
UPDATE: Buffalo News correspondent Bill Brown filed this report on the council proceedings.
